AMI INTERNATIONAL S DE RL DE CV

Author:   F. Martinez - AMI International / AMI Automation
Co-Authors:   Guillermo Fernandez

Abstract:
The use of AMI SmartFurnace optimization modules in Electric Arc Furnaces and the developments in the optimization of the Oxygen, Natural Gas and Carbon Injection have been continuously improving the steelmaking process in EAFs around the world. One major milestone has been to close the control loop of chemical energy control with the introduction of a Laser Off Gas Analyzer, measuring the CO, CO2, H2O and Temperature of the off gas. The measurements taken by the instrumentation are used by the SmartFurnace Off Gas and Oxygen Module to calculate the optimal setpoints of the EAF burners and lances. The chemical energy modules are complemented dynamic process models and algorithms for electrical energy providing an integral furnace control. The latest implementations of this technology in plants with a wide range of raw materials, EAF mechanical characteristics and production needs are described in this paper, and the achieved results are shown.

Author: Carlos de los Santos - AMI International / AMI Automation
Co-Authors: S. Jackson - Duferdofin Nucor

Abstract:
The optimization task in the Electric Arc Furnace requires a very precise balance of the interaction between the chemical and electrical energy. With the increasing number of high productive EAF, the use of burners, coal injectors and oxygen injection in coordination with electric power play a significant role in improving the efficiency of the steel making process. Besides, with constant changes in demand, produced steel grade, and raw material quality among other constraints, the need for a system capable of adapting to the current operation conditions becomes critical.
With this situation in mind, Duferdofin Nucor, a steel plant located in San Zeno, Italy, made an installation of the AMI technology in their Electric Arc Furnace during the summer of 2018. This paper describes how the AMI SmartFurnace system, featuring the DigitARC PX3 Electrode Regulator together with Electrical and Chemical Energy Input Modules, helped optimize the operation in Duferdofin Nucor, with results in efficiency and productivity. The details of this system are discussed and results of its functionalities are shown.